Last updated on June 17th, 2025 at 06:05 am
Shirley Strawberry, the beloved co-host of The Steve Harvey Morning Show, is more than just a familiar voice on the airwaves—she’s also a woman with a personal life that has sparked curiosity among fans.
One of the most common searches related to her is about her partner: Who is Shirley Strawberry’s husband?
This article explores everything you need to know about her husband, the relationship timeline, public controversies, personal struggles, and how Shirley’s experience resonates with many women navigating love and loyalty in the spotlight.
Shirley Strawberry Husband Ernesto Williams
🧑⚖️ Who is Ernest Williams Shirley Strawberry?
- Ernesto (Earnest) Williams is a Georgia-based businessman who married Shirley Strawberry—radio personality and co‑host of the Steve Harvey Morning Show—in January 2015.
- Prosecutors allege he fraudulently married Shirley while still legally wed to another woman, suggesting the marriage served as a credibility booster for his alleged schemes.
⚖️ Legal Allegations & Charges
- In May 2024, Williams was indicted on 39 RICO charges in Fulton County, Georgia, accused of orchestrating a long-running fraud “from at least December 2009 through June 2022”
- Prosecutors claim he employed his relationship with Shirley to appear as a legitimate businessman, defrauding at least 25 victims out of over $750,000, including money, vehicles, RVs, motorcycles, and trailers.
- Fani Willis, the Atlanta DA, stated he “pretended to be a legitimate businessman, but he was stealing from people”
💔 Divorce & Current Status
- Upon his indictment, Shirley filed for divorce in April 2024, finalizing it in October 2024.
- As of now, Williams remains incarcerated and awaiting trial on the RICO and fraud charge.
📌 Summary Timeline
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2015 | Shirley and Ernesto marry (Ernesto allegedly still married to another) |
| 2009–2022 | Alleged period of fraud across Georgia and other states |
| May 2024 | Indicted on 39 RICO charges |
| April 2024 | Shirley files for divorce |
| October 2024 | Divorce finalized |
| Present | Williams in jail awaiting trial |
👤 About Shirley Strawberry
Shirley is a seasoned radio host and author, best known for co-hosting the Steve Harvey Morning Show. In interviews, she described the relationship as a “southern gentleman” romance that turned out to be unexpectedly tumultuous when the charges emerged.
How Old Is Shirley Strawberry Husband ?
husband—was 57 years old.
Since that’s the most recent confirmed age and we’re now in June 2025, he would likely be 58, unless his birthday since the indictment hasn’t occurred yet. Without exact birthdate details publicly available, it’s safest to say he’s around 58 years old today.
What Did Shirley Strawberry Husband Do To Her Daughter ?
There are no credible, publicly documented claims that Ernesto “Earnest” Williams, Shirley Strawberry’s estranged husband, ever abused or harmed her daughter, Sheridan.
- A detailed bio explains that Shirley has a daughter named Sheridan from a previous marriage, but there’s no mention of any mistreatment by Williams.
- One site that specifically addresses your question states: “What did Shirley Strawberry’s husband do to her daughter?
There are no publicly verified reports of Ernesto Williams doing anything to Shirley Strawberry’s daughter.”
That said, Williams has faced serious criminal allegations—fraud, theft, child pornography, and RICO charges—but none involve direct accusations of abuse toward Sheridan.
Shirley Strawberry Husband Jail
Ernesto “Earnest” Williams—Shirley Strawberry’s estranged husband—is currently incarcerated in Fulton County, Georgia. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his legal troubles and jail status:
🏛️ Incarceration & Charges
- In jail since summer 2022 on multiple charges including fraud, gun possession, theft, and child pornography.
- In June 2023, he pleaded guilty to felony weapon possession, receiving a 23‑month prison sentence.
- He remains in custody without bail and is still awaiting trial on the remaining charges .
🧾 Noteworthy Legal Facts
He has been accused of bigamy, as his first wife Edith (married since 1985) reportedly never divorced him, rendering his subsequent marriage to Shirley invalid
Williams is also facing 39 RICO counts (racketeering, fraud, identity theft) as alleged in separate indictments.
📅 Timeline at a Glance
| Period | Event |
|---|---|
| Summer 2022 | Arrested and jailed on multiple charges |
| Oct 2022 | Phone call leaks; Shirley reveals financial strain from his legal fees |
| April 2024 | Shirley files for divorce |
| July 2024 | He skips court divorce hearing as incarcerated |
| Oct 2024 | Divorce finalized |
| June 2023 | Sentenced to 23 months for weapon possession |
| Present (Jun 2025) | Still in Fulton County Jail awaiting trial on fraud/RICO/child porn charges |
🔍 Recent Status
The divorce from Shirley was finalized in October 2024.
Still incarcerated, held without bond, and serving his 23-month sentence, with additional legal proceedings pending .
The divorce from Shirley was finalized in October 2024.
Who Is Shirley Strawberry Husband ?
Who is he?
Ernest “Earnest,” aka Ernesto Williams, is a Georgia-based businessman who gained significant media attention after marrying radio personality Shirley Strawberry—co-host of the Steve Harvey Morning Show—in January 2015.
He allegedly maintained this marriage while still legally wed to another woman, using his relationship with Shirley to boost his credibility with potential victims .
The allegations
- In May 2024, Williams was indicted on 39 RICO-related charges (racketeering, fraud, identity theft, etc.) in Fulton County, Georgia.
- Prosecutors allege that from December 2009 through June 2022, he defrauded at least 25 victims, siphoning off over $750,000—including vehicles, RVs, motorcycles, coach buses, trailers, and cash—by exploiting trust and false promises.
- His relationship with Shirley is viewed as a key part of the scheme; by presenting himself as a “legitimate businessman” with a celebrity partner, he more easily gained victims’ confidence.
Additional context
- Williams is also accused of bigamy, as his marriage to Shirley overlapped with a prior, still-valid marriage to a woman named Edith Williams for over 30 years .
- He remains in custody at the Cobb County Jail, awaiting further court proceedings and sentencing.
Why this matters
- The indictment highlights how criminals may exploit high-profile personal connections for deceptive gain.
- Shirley Strawberry filed for divorce in April 2024, and finalized the divorce in October 2024.
In summary: Shirley Strawberry’s ex-husband is Earnest “Ernesto” Williams—a convicted conman and businessman facing multiple felony charges. He allegedly used their marriage to project legitimacy and facilitate a long-running fraud scheme targeting at least 25 victims. He is currently incarcerated and awaiting trial on the RICO and fraud charges.
Shirley Strawberry Husband Age
Ernesto “Earnest” Williams—Shirley Strawberry’s estranged husband—is reported to have been 57 years old at the time of his indictment in May 2024.
Since today is June 11, 2025, and we don’t know his exact birthdate, he would now be either 57 or 58, depending on whether his birthday has passed this year.
Shirley Strawberry Age
As of 2025, Shirley Strawberry is 70 years old. She was born on July 28, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Over the years, she has become a well-known voice in American radio, especially recognized for her role as co-host on The Steve Harvey Morning Show. Despite being in her 70s, Shirley remains active in broadcasting, known for her wisdom, humor, and empowering voice in the media industry.
Shirley Strawberry Husband Arrested
Ernesto “Earnest” Williams—Shirley Strawberry’s soon‑to‑be ex-husband—is indeed in custody. Here’s what we know about his arrest:
🚨 Arrest & Initial Custody
- Arrested in 2022 amid long-running criminal investigations, Williams has been behind bars since then, held without bond on serious charges, including fraud, identity theft, bigamy, and RICO violations.
🧾 Legal Proceedings & Indictments
- In May 2024, a Fulton County grand jury indicted him on 39 counts—including racketeering, filing false documents, identity fraud, theft, and bigamy—alleging he operated a complex fraud scheme from 2009 to 2022, targeting at least 25 victims and defrauding them of over $750,000.
- Prosecutors allege Williams entered a fraudulent marriage with Shirley Strawberry while still legally married to another woman, using that marriage to enhance his credibility and attract victims.
⏳ Current Status
- He remains incarcerated, currently awaiting trial. His co-defendant, Ericka King, has pleaded guilty and is cooperating as part of a plea deal.
🗓️ Arrest-to-Trial Timeline
| Date/Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 2022 | Arrested and jailed during fraud investigation |
| May 2024 | Indicted on 39 RICO and related charges |
| Post-May 2024 | Continues to be held without bail, awaiting trial |
Bottom line: Ernesto Williams was arrested in 2022 as part of a large-scale fraud investigation. Since then, he has remained locked up under multiple felony indictments, and his case is awaiting trial.
Would you like updates on court dates, trial status, or details of the charges?
Shirley Strawberry Husband Indicted
Ernesto “Earnest” Williams—Shirley Strawberry’s estranged husband—was formally indicted in May 2024 by a Fulton County grand jury on 39 counts under Georgia’s RICO statutes. The charges include racketeering, fraud, identity theft, bigamy, and filing false documents in connection with a long-term fraud scheme.
🕵️♂️ Main Allegations
- Fraud scheme (2009–2022): Prosecutors say Williams defrauded at least 25 victims—primarily women—stealing $750,000+ in money, vehicles (RVs, motorcycles, coach buses, trailers), and other assets
- Fraudulent marriage: It’s alleged he was already married when he wed Shirley in January 2015, using the union to boost his reputation and deceive victims.
- Romantic deception: Prosecutors contend he cultivated romantic—or seemingly personal—relationships with victims to gain their trust before defrauding them.
- Use of accomplices: He allegedly recruited co-conspirators (e.g., Ericka King) to impersonate attorneys in court, part of the scheme’s cover.
📅 Timeline Highlights
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 23, 2024 | Fulton Grand Jury issues 39-count indictment |
| May 31, 2024 | Public reporting confirms RICO charges and scope |
🔍 Current Status
- Williams is incarcerated at the Cobb County Jail, held without bond, and is awaiting trial on the indicted charges.
- Shirley Strawberry filed for divorce in April 2024, and the divorce was finalized in October 2024.
⚖️ Why It Matters
This case stands out for illustrating how someone can allegedly exploit personal relationships—including a high-profile marriage—to engage in prolonged, large-scale fraud. It also demonstrates the growing use of Georgia’s RICO laws for prosecuting complex financial crimes.
Shirley Strawberry Husband Update
Here are the latest updates on Ernesto “Earnest” Williams, Shirley Strawberry’s estranged husband:
⚖️ Co‑defendant Pleads Guilty & Set to Testify
- Ericka King, accused alongside Williams, pleaded guilty in June 2024 as part of a plea deal and agreed to testify against him in the RICO trial.
- King described Williams as her “boss” and said he “pressured and manipulated” her into committing crimes, including impersonating attorneys.
📆 Upcoming Court Proceedings
- Williams had a final plea hearing scheduled for April 30, 2025, in Judge Jeff Dunaway’s court.
- Additionally, recent court footage suggests a first-week-of-June court appearance, hinting some movement toward trial or pre-trial motions.
✅ Child Pornography Charge Dropped
- In recent weeks, prosecutors reportedly declined to pursue the child pornography (CP) charge linked to Williams, easing one element of his legal burden.
🧩 Case Status Summary
| Area | Update | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Co-defendant | Ericka King pled guilty & will testify | June 2024 |
| Court dates | April 30 plea; early June hearing upcoming | |
| Child porn charge | Prosecutors declined to pursue |
🔍 What’s Next?
- Trial prep: With King set to testify, it appears the prosecution is building a stronger case.
- Plea negotiations: The April 30 hearing could involve plea discussions or motions.
- RICO trial: Depending on pre-trial outcomes, a full RICO trial looms in the coming months.
Shirley Strawberry Husband Drama
Here’s a clearer picture of the drama surrounding Shirley Strawberry’s ex-husband, Ernesto (Earnest) Williams:
⚠️ Fraud & RICO Indictment
- 39-count Georgia RICO indictment: Prosecutors allege Williams ran an elaborate fraud from 2009–2022, targeting at least 25 victims and stealing over $750,000 in cash, vehicles (cars, motorcycles, buses), trailers, auto parts, and services.
- He allegedly fraudulently married Shirley in 2015—while still married—and used her public profile from the Steve Harvey Morning Show to appear legitimate and lure victims.
💔 Shirley Strawberry’s Response & Divorce
- Shirley filed for divorce in April 2024, just days before his arrest, and officially finalized the divorce by October 2024.
- Though Shirley is not accused of wrongdoing, the indictment claims she was unaware of Williams’s real intentions.
🗂️ Ongoing Legal Fallout
- Williams remains in custody pending trial, facing serious charges including fraud and racketeering. Prosecutors believe additional victims remain unidentified.
- Meanwhile, Shirley is rebuilding her life and career, distancing herself from the scandal.
🔍 In Summary
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Charges | 39-count RICO fraud involving $750K+, spanning a decade |
| Shirley’s Involvement | Married 2015, divorced 2024—and claims she was unaware |
| Current Status | Williams is jailed awaiting trial; Shirley has finalized her divorce and moved on |
If you want more on the legal proceedings, details from the divorce filings, or Shirley’s public statements, I can dive deeper!
Shirley Strawberry Husband Still In Jail
Yes — Ernesto “Earnest” Williams, Shirley Strawberry’s ex-husband, remains in jail awaiting trial on serious federal charges.
📌 Current Status
- He has been held without bond since his initial arrest in mid-2022 on multiple charges, including fraud, RICO violations, and weapons-related offenses.
- As of October 2024, a court noted he had already been jailed for two years without bond, and he still remains behind bars.
- Although he pled guilty in June 2023 to weapons charges and received a 23-month sentence, that did not absolve the larger RICO and fraud allegations; he’s still incarcerated, awaiting federal trial on those outstanding counts .
In short: Ernesto Williams remains in custody in Fulton County Jail, with no indication of release or bond, while he waits to face trial on the broader racketeering and fraud indictment.
Shirley Strawberry Husband Net Worth
Here’s what I found about Shirley Strawberry’s husband, Ernesto (or “Earnest”) Williams, and his estimated net worth:
📌 Who Is He?
- Ernesto (Earnest) Williams is a barber-turned-businessman who married radio host Shirley Strawberry in 2015.
- He was later indicted on 39 fraud/RICO charges related to allegedly scamming over $750,000 from at least 25 victims.
- Williams was accused of leveraging the marriage to Shirley to appear reputable and further his schemes.
💼 Net Worth Estimates
- Some online sources estimate his net worth at around $700,000 based on the success of his barber shop business.
- Others suggest it could be between $1 million and $5 million, though these claims lack solid evidence and may be inflated .
- Keep in mind these are unverified figures and may not reflect his current situation, considering his significant legal liabilities and ongoing divorce.
🧾 Summary
His legal troubles likely have seriously affected his assets and financial standing.
Estimated net worth: widely reported between $700K and $1–5 million, but accuracy is questionable.
Quick Facts About Shirley Strawberry’s Husband
- Name: Ernesto Williams (reportedly)
- Marital Status: Married (though currently facing legal and emotional strains)
- Marriage Timeline: Married in 2015
- Occupation: Entrepreneur, beauty industry professional
- Public Controversies: Legal issues, including incarceration
Why the Curiosity About Shirley Strawberry’s Husband?
Listeners who tune into The Steve Harvey Morning Show often feel like Shirley is a friend. Her warmth, humor, and wisdom create a bond with audiences. So naturally, fans want to know more about the man in her life. This curiosity intensified when Shirley opened up about her husband’s legal problems and how it has affected her emotionally and publicly.
The Beginning | Shirley and Ernesto’s Love Story
Shirley married Ernesto Williams in 2015. Ernesto was known as a successful entrepreneur who ran a beauty salon business in Atlanta. The relationship appeared strong from the start. Shirley frequently shared her joy about being married later in life, offering hope to women who may have felt it was too late for them to find love.
The Legal Challenges | When Love Meets Reality
Unfortunately, Shirley’s personal life became public fodder when her husband faced serious legal troubles. Ernesto Williams was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, leading to incarceration. These revelations shocked fans and brought about a storm of opinions and online speculation.
But Shirley chose to stand by her husband—at least initially—despite the overwhelming pressure and public scrutiny. Her reaction demonstrated courage and emotional complexity, illustrating that love isn’t always black and white.
Public Reaction and Social Media Speculation
As soon as the news about Ernesto’s legal troubles broke, fans and critics alike began weighing in on Shirley’s marriage:
- Should she stay or leave?
- Was she aware of his activities?
- How does this affect her credibility as a public figure?
These questions trended on social media, creating a narrative Shirley had no choice but to address eventually. Through radio segments and interviews, she communicated how deeply hurt and blindsided she felt, yet also stressed her desire for healing and moving forward.
Shirley’s Strength | A Woman’s Journey Through Adversity
Rather than shying away from the spotlight, Shirley Strawberry chose to share her truth. She spoke about betrayal, love, loyalty, and the pain of realizing someone you trusted may not be who you thought they were.
Her story has resonated with countless women who’ve dealt with public embarrassment, emotional betrayal, or the collapse of a marriage they once believed in. Shirley became a symbol of resilience—proof that you can be broken but not destroyed.
Setting the Record Straight | Common Questions About Her Husband
Is Shirley Strawberry still married to her husband?
As of now, she has not officially announced a divorce but has expressed emotional distance and disappointment.
Did she know about his criminal activity?
According to Shirley, she had no prior knowledge and was completely blindsided.
Has she spoken out publicly?
Yes, Shirley has addressed the issue through radio segments, expressing her pain and determination to move forward.
What’s next for Shirley?
She remains focused on her career and daughter, leaning on faith and friendship to rebuild her emotional well-being.
Expert Insight | Why Women Stay (And Why They Leave)
Dr. Tanya Reed, a relationship counselor, explains:
“Women in long-term relationships often balance love and loyalty, even in the face of betrayal. It’s not about weakness—it’s about hope, commitment, and the desire to believe in someone.”
Shirley Strawberry’s experience underscores how difficult these decisions can be, especially when they’re made in the public eye.
Redefining Love and Self-Worth After Betrayal
One of the most powerful aspects of Shirley’s story is her ability to maintain self-worth despite heartbreak. She didn’t let the scandal define her. Instead, she reclaimed her identity, focusing on what matters most: her daughter, her peace, and her voice on the airwaves.
The Impact on Her Career and Public Image
Though some wondered whether the scandal would hurt her career, Shirley’s openness and authenticity only strengthened her bond with listeners. Instead of hiding, she showed up—imperfect, honest, and human.
This vulnerability created a deeper connection between her and her audience. Her story isn’t one of scandal; it’s one of surviving and thriving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shirley Strawberry’s husband?
Ernesto Williams, an entrepreneur and businessman.
Are they still together?
They are reportedly still married, though Shirley has hinted at emotional separation.
What did he do?
He faced multiple legal charges that led to incarceration.
Did Shirley know about it?
She has stated that she was unaware of his activities.
Has Shirley addressed the situation?
Yes, she has spoken about it in various public forums, expressing hurt and resilience.
What’s Shirley doing now?
Continuing her radio career, raising her daughter, and focusing on healing and personal growth.
Final Thoughts | Love Isn’t Always a Fairytale
The story of Shirley Strawberry’s husband is layered—one of hope, disappointment, and ultimately, self-respect. Her journey reminds us that:
- Love doesn’t guarantee happiness
- Standing by someone isn’t weakness—it’s love with boundaries
- Your worth isn’t tied to anyone else’s actions
Shirley Strawberry is still standing—and so are countless women who’ve faced similar struggles. Her story continues to evolve, and whatever happens next, she’s writing her own narrative.
James Wilson is a puzzle aficionado with a flair for storytelling and a passion for problem-solving. His expertise in a wide range of puzzles, from crosswords to logic puzzles, shines through in his compelling and informative articles. James’ ability to make puzzling both fun and accessible makes him a beloved member of the Puzzlerpedia team.
